Historical Events tagged with "tang dynasty"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Arts & Culture

Du Fu Returns to Chang'an After Rebellion

December 8th, 757 1267 years ago

Du Fu, a renowned Chinese poet, returned to Chang'an as a member of Emperor Xuanzong's court following the chaotic An Lushan Rebellion. This marked an important moment in his life after the hardships faced during the rebellion. Upon his return, he was welcomed into the imperial circle, providing him a platform to express his profound experiences through poetry. The event signified both personal recovery and the restoration of cultural life in the aftermath of conflict.

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Politics & Government

Emperor Xuanzong Faces Guard Ultimatum

July 15th, 756 1268 years ago

Amidst growing unrest in the Tang dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong was pressured by his Imperial Guards to execute Chancellor Yang Guozhong. The guards threatened mutiny, leading to intense political strife as General An Lushan orchestrated the assassination of members of the imperial family. The turbulent atmosphere marked a critical moment in the rebellion.

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Politics & Government

An Lushan Declares Himself Emperor of Yan

February 5th, 756 1269 years ago

An Lushan, a Tang dynasty general, declared himself Emperor of China and founded the Yan state, beginning a rebellion against the Tang government. This proclamation marked a significant power shift during a time of unrest and civil war, leading to the fall of Chang'an to his forces. An Lushan's ambitions were fueled by personal grievances and the desire for retaliation against the Tang authorities, setting off a destructive period in Chinese history.

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Military & Warfare

An Lushan's Revolt Against Yang Guozhong

December 16th, 755 1269 years ago

An Lushan, a Tang dynasty general, revolted against Chancellor Yang Guozhong at Yanjing due to political strife and corruption. The uprising was a response to the perceived failures of the government and personal grievances against Yang. An Lushan's actions marked the beginning of a large-scale rebellion that would embroil the Tang dynasty in conflict.

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Cultural Traditions

Emperor Zhongzong Interred Relatives at Qianling Mausoleum

July 2nd, 706 1318 years ago

Emperor Zhongzong of Tang conducted the interment of his family members in the Qianling Mausoleum, situated on Mount Liang outside the capital city of Chang'an. This significant act symbolized the honor and respect towards the deceased, reinforcing imperial lineage and familial ties. The mausoleum served as a key site for the Tang dynasty's burial practices, reflecting the importance of ancestral veneration in Chinese culture. The interment ceremony was notable for its grandeur, illustrating the wealth and power of the Tang dynasty during this period.

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Politics & Government

Wu Zetian Resigns, Tang Dynasty Restored

February 23rd, 705 1320 years ago

Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history, abdicated her throne, ending her Xuanzong era and returning official power to the Tang dynasty. This transition was marked by political maneuvering and potential unrest, leading to the re-establishment of the Tang imperial authority. Wu's abdication resulted from both internal court dynamics and her declining health. She appointed her son, Li Xian, to succeed her, prompting a restoration of traditional protocols in the imperial court.

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Politics & Government

Wu Zetian Becomes China's Only Empress

October 17th, 690 1334 years ago

Wu Zetian proclaimed herself the Empress of China, establishing the Zhou Dynasty. This significant change took place in the capital, Luoyang, where Wu declared the end of the Tang Dynasty and initiated her reign. As China's only female emperor, she aimed to consolidate power and transform governance in a male-dominated society. Her rule focused on promoting meritocracy and strengthening the central government, which garnered both support and resentment among Confucian scholars and officials.

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Politics & Government

Wu Zetian Proclaims Herself Emperor

October 16th, 690 1334 years ago

Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history, declared herself the ruler of the Chinese Empire, marking a pivotal moment in the Tang dynasty. This unprecedented decision shifted the dynamics of power in a heavily patriarchal society. With this proclamation, she aimed to solidify her authority over the empire and eliminate opposition. Despite the challenges she faced, her leadership would bring significant cultural and political changes.

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Military & Warfare

Surrender of Kucha After Prolonged Siege

January 19th, 649 1376 years ago

Forces of Kucha capitulated after a 40-day siege led by Tang general Ashina She'er. This event marked a significant reinforcement of Tang authority in the northern Tarim Basin part of Xinjiang, reflecting the ambitions of the Tang dynasty to expand its influence across Central Asia. The seizure of Kucha was vital for the Tang to control key trade routes, facilitating interaction with the Silk Road.

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